History of Umrah in Islam

HISTORY OF THE FIRST UMRAH

Inspired by a dream, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his 1400 followers, set out to Makkah to perform the pilgrimage of Umrah. However, when the people of Makkah heard about their journey, they were worried that they might be coming forth to attack them and their city. To clear their concerns, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sent them a message that they were visiting Makkah to perform Umrah and would exit the city peacefully. However, the people of Quraish did not let them enter Makkah and stopped them at Hudaybiyyah, near Makkah.

Upon sending a messenger, both parties had a discussion which led to the treaty of Huddaybiyyah. There were a few clauses of this treaty which stated that the Muslims would go back and enter the city of Makkah the following year for three days. additionally, it was agreed that there would be no hostilities between both sides and they would remain peaceful.

Hence, the following year as per the treaty rules, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) along with his companions set out to perform the minor pilgrimage – of Umrah in the year 6 AH (629 CE). The treaty did not remain intact as after two years, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers were attacked by the allies of the Makkans, leading to the death of some Muslims.

By that time, Muslims had a strong force of people. So, this led to the conquest of Makkah, which took place in 630 CE, by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), with an army of over 10,000 Muslims marched towards Makkah. The people of Makkah and the leaders accepted defeat. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed Umrah four times during his lifetime.

IHRAM CLOTHING FOR MUSLIMS

Ihram clothing involves the garment that Muslim men and women wear to perform the sacred pilgrimages of both Hajj and Umrah. As for ihram for men, it consists of two white clothes.

The top part is referred to as Rida which covers the upper body while the bottom is referred to as Izar which covers the lower body. Ihram for women includes abayas and hijabs. It is best to wear plain colors with no design or embroidery, covering the whole body but leaving the face.